2017-2018 STUDENT-PARENT INFORMATION GUIDE

Where young futures take place

HUNTSVILLE, ALABAMA Date of Revision: July 31, 2017 In accordance with the requirements of Title II of the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 (“ADA”), the Huntsville Board of Education will not discriminate against qualified individuals. For more information, contact: [email protected].

INTRODUCTION

Education is a partnership between the student, the parent, and the school – a partnership to provide quality education in a positive and supportive environment. For to be successful, your cooperation and support are needed. Parents, please take time to review and discuss the items in this Student- Parent Information Guide with your student. If you have questions regarding any item(s) at this time or as the year progresses, please contact the principal of your student’s school. We want to work with you to resolve any questions or concerns.

The purpose of this Student-Parent Information Guide is to inform students and parents of important information regarding your student’s educational experience at Huntsville City Schools. For questions related to district and school policies, please refer to the Huntsville City Schools Policy Manual found at www.huntsvillecityschools.org .

MISSION

Inspire, develop and engage all students in becoming career and college ready; creative problem-solvers; active citizens; and life-long learners in a globally connected society.

VISION

Huntsville City Schools will become the model public education system in the United States, demonstrating commitment to equity and excellence by establishing the standard for instruction, curriculum, faculty, facilities, technology and student activities to ensure that all students graduate with the capacity to compete successfully and contribute responsibly as a citizen in a globally connected society.

GUIDING PRINCIPLES

These principles will guide our education system in all circumstances. We believe in: • Providing equitable educational opportunities and resources for all students. • Embracing diversity of students and staff across the district. • Creating a safe, ethical and positive environment for all students and staff. • Engaging parents and the community in their essential role in the education of students. • Delivering superior and engaging academic instruction through:

▪ Highly effective professional staff who facilitate student-centered learning;

▪ The use of technology and other resources to create personalized learning environments that support the varied learning needs of all students;

▪ Effective strategies that align curriculum, instruction, assessment and timely feedback.

• Raising the achievement of top performing students and accelerating the learning of lower performing students so that all students master or exceed college and career ready standards.

• Nurturing the intellectual, moral, behavioral and physical development of all students.

• Building an agile learning organization that can meet the needs of a changing world.

• Fostering a problem-solving, outcomes-focused culture that embraces continuous improvement and rejects excuses.

TABLE OF CONTENTS

2017-2018 HCS CALENDAR ...... 5 ATTENDANCE ...... 6 EARLY WARNING PROGRAM...... 7 INCLEMENT WEATHER / SCHOOL CLOSINGS ...... 7 CONSENT ORDER INITIATIVES ...... 8 STUDENT NUTRITION ...... 9 STUDENT TRANSPORTATION ...... 10 STUDENT HEALTH ...... 12 STUDENT ASSESSMENT PROGRAM (STATE AND HCS) ...... 15 STUDENT GRADING ...... 16 PROMOTION AND GRADUATION ...... 17 MATH ACCELERATION ...... 21 FAMILY AND COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT ...... 22 TITLE I...... 23 SUPPORT FOR FAMILIES ...... 25 STUDENT DRESS CODE ...... 27 STUDENT PRIVACY AND SUPPORT ...... 27 STUDENT RIGHTS ...... 28 SCHOOL ENVIRONMENT AND SAFETY ...... 29 INTERNET SAFETY...... 30 STUDENT FEES, FINES, AND CHARGES ...... 32 PARENT CONCERNS ...... 32 HCS SCHOOL DIRECTORY ...... 33 HCS PROGRAM / FACILITY DIRECTORY ...... 34 HCS DEPARTMENT DIRECTORY ...... 35

In accordance with Title IX requirements, the Huntsville Board of Education does not discriminate on the basis of sex in the education programs or activities it operates. Questions regarding Title IX may be referred to the HCS Title IX coordinator, [email protected] or the Office for Civil Rights (OCR).

2017-2018 HCS CALENDAR

July 26-28 (Wednesday-Friday) Professional Development July 31 (Monday) Institute Day August 1 (Tuesday) Teacher Work Day August 2 (Wednesday) First Student Attendance Day September 4 (Monday) Labor Day Holiday September 22 (Friday) ½ day for students, full day for teachers (PD) September 29 (Friday) End of 1st 9 Weeks Fall Break: October 2-6 (Monday-Friday) October 25 (Wednesday) ½ day for students, full day for teachers (PD) November 10 (Friday) Veteran's Day Holiday (observed) November 20-24 (Monday-Friday) Thanksgiving Holiday December 16 (Friday) End of 1st Semester Winter Break: December 18 – January 2 January 2 (Tuesday) Teacher Work Day January 3 (Wednesday) Students Return January 15 (Monday) Martin Luther King, Jr. Holiday February 7 (Wednesday) ½ day for students, full day for teachers (PD) February 16 & 19 (Friday & Monday) Possible Snow Days March 2 (Friday) ½ day for students, full day for teachers (PD) March 2 (Friday) End of 3rd 9 Weeks Spring Break: March 26-30 (Monday-Friday) May 24 (Thursday) End of 2nd Semester May 24 (Thursday) Last Day for Students May 25 (Friday) Teacher Work Day May 24-25 (Thursday-Friday) Graduation Day May 28 (Monday) Memorial Day Holiday

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ATTENDANCE

Good student attendance enhances learning. When a A student may have a total of 10 excused absences for student is not in school, he/she misses valuable illness without a doctor’s statement. After an instructional time. HCS views attendance and academic accumulation of 10 excused absences for illness without achievement as equally important and has policies, a doctor’s statement, the student will receive unexcused procedures, and supports designed to encourage students absences for illness unless absences are documented to attend school. with a doctor’s statement. Any exception to this policy will require a doctor’s documentation of a chronic illness Alabama law requires that students ages six through 17 that causes absences which may not comply with the attend school (or be home-schooled). Parents/guardians attendance policy. A student will still receive excused are responsible for ensuring their student attends school. absences for reasons (b), (c), (d), or (e) above. Failing to do so can result in penalties, including a fine up to $100.00 and up to ninety days in jail. UNEXCUSED ABSENCES

Any absence(s) not classified as excused absence(s) will be EXCUSED ABSENCES coded unexcused. Students who miss school for an excused reason are expected to make up missed work and will be given the TARDIES opportunity to complete any missed homework, tests, or If a student arrives to school after the start of the school other academic activity. Absences will be excused for the day, the student is considered tardy. following reasons:

a. Personal illness without a doctor’s excuse with ABSENCES DUE TO RELIGIOUS PURPOSES parent/guardian excuse Absences for religious purposes are excused only if the b. Personal illness with a doctor’s statement parent/guardian submits a written request. Such requests c. Death in the immediate family must clearly specify the denomination and the particular d. Weather preventing attendance (would endanger religious observance for which the excused absence is student’s health) requested. Requests for excused religious absences exceeding three days per student per year must be e. Legal requirements, such as subpoena or other approved in writing by the principal or designee. required court appearance f. Legal quarantine g. Disciplinary action h. Participation in school-related activities

Except for (g) and (h) above, parent(s)/guardian(s) must provide a written explanation of the reason(s) for each absence within two school days after each absence (or consecutive absences). If the written explanation is not provided within the two day period, the absences will be unexcused. A student must be in attendance one-half day to be counted present.

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EARLY WARNING PROGRAM

EARLY WARNING ATTENDANCE TRUANCY one of the following reasons or combination of reasons: AND CONDUCT INTERVENTION PROGRAM • Five or more unexcused absences The Early Warning Program is a joint effort between the • Ten or more questionable excused absences which HCS Board of Education and the District Attorney’s office. were not satisfactorily explained It is designed to reduce truancy and the number of • Ten or more unexcused tardies student dropouts and provide an intervention program • Up to three out-of-school suspensions for student behavior at school. The format of the program consists of group sessions held weekly throughout the All students (K-12) are subject to the regulations of the year in the courtroom of the Madison County Courthouse. Early Warning Program. The purpose of Early Warning sessions is to share information concerning compulsory school attendance An important part of the Early Warning Program is to offer law and school board policies pertaining to truancy, help or assistance to parents and students with problems attendance, and behavior, thus constituting an Early that may interfere with a student’s attendance. Warning.

Students and parents are required to attend Early Warning sessions when students have been referred for

INCLEMENT WEATHER / SCHOOL CLOSINGS

The Superintendent will close schools when weather or other conditions are too hazardous for safe operation. Parents will be notified of emergencies via the Parent Notification System. News media will be notified by 5:30a.m. unless extreme weather conditions occur during the school day. When hazardous weather conditions are forecast, parents are responsible for deciding whether their student(s) should be allowed to drive to school or whether they should make alternate arrangements for their student’s transportation.

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CONSENT ORDER INITIATIVES

STRATEGY AND INNOVATION To learn more about implementation of the Consent Order, please see the HCS website at Welcome to Huntsville City Schools and the Strategy and www.huntsvillecityschools.org . The Consent Order Innovation department! We know you will have a great Implementation Web Page (IWP) has FAQs, basic year with Huntsville City Schools! information, and a section for public comment. The

Consent Order addresses areas such as: The Strategy and Innovation department assists the Superintendent in creating, implementing, coordinating, • Student Assignment and communicating strategic initiatives that support the • Equitable Access to Course Offerings and Programs mission and vision of the school district and directs the • Extracurricular Activities development of innovative programs and initiatives throughout the district. • Faculty/Facilities • Student Discipline, Positive School Climate, and One of the major initiatives of the Strategy and Innovation Effective Classroom Management department is to oversee implementation of the Consent • Transportation Order. We are excited to have this roadmap from the Court to assist us with aligning the work of various • Desegregation Advisory Committee departments with our mission, vision, and strategic goals. • Monitoring, Reporting, and Oversight of We collaborate with departments across the district to Implementation bring about exciting programs that exemplify our commitment to equity and excellence. Addressing these areas of the Consent Order provides Huntsville City Schools the opportunity to review policies, procedures, programs, and initiatives to ensure our students are provided with state of the art programs and opportunities to prepare them for a bright future. We believe students benefit from increased opportunities in areas such as magnet, gifted, honors and AP courses, math acceleration, career academies, extracurricular activities, positive school climate programs, and many more! In Huntsville City Schools, you will find our vision and mission are the key factors in supporting the work we do every day in every school.

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STUDENT NUTRITION

MEAL COST / PAYMENT School meals are a healthy option, a great value, and a tremendous convenience for busy families. At Huntsville City Schools, nutritious meals are available to all students to further prepare our young people for the future.

Meal Prices (for all grade levels): Breakfast: Students: Universal Free Breakfast Faculty, Staff, Teachers: $2.00 Guests - $2.50

Lunch: Paid student lunch - $2.30 Reduced price lunch - $0.40 Faculty, Staff, Teachers: 3.25 Guests - $4.00

Payments can be made by cash or check to your student’s school. Free and Reduced meal forms available online: www.huntsvillecityschools.org. Parents may add money to student meal accounts at SUMMER FEEDING PROGRAM EZSchoolPay.com. During the summer, HCS provides free hot breakfast, lunch, and dinner at select school locations, as well as a COMMUNITY ELIGIBILITY PROVISION mobile feeding bus. Summer meals are available for all children ages 18 and under. Many of our schools provide all students with free lunch without having to complete an application. Please check For more information, parents are encouraged to visit the the HCS website for a list of schools that participate in the Child Nutrition Department’s page on the HCS website. CEP.

BREAKFAST IN THE CLASSROOM (BIC) WELLNESS POLICY We strive to provide an environment of health and All Huntsville City Schools provide FREE Breakfast in the wellness for our students throughout the school day. A copy Classroom (BIC) for all students. of the wellness policy is available on our web site.

FREE SUPPER Additionally, HCS offers free Supper at select schools at the end of the school day. This program is free to anyone ages 18 and under. Please check the HCS website for a list of schools that provide free supper.

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STUDENT TRANSPORTATION

SCHOOL BUS CONDUCT • Elementary and students (K-8) who live more than two miles from their school are School bus conduct and discipline are parental and eligible for school bus transportation. student responsibilities. It is important that students follow all established rules and regulations to ensure the • High school students (9-12) who live more than five safety of all student passengers. Parents are requested to miles from their school are eligible for school bus ensure their student fully understands school bus rules transportation. and obeys them. • Students approved for Majority-to-Minority Student Transfers and magnet schools are eligible for school SCHOOL BUS SCHEDULE bus transportation from their home/zoned school to Students should be at their assigned bus stop on time and the newly assigned school. ready to enter the bus upon arrival. When students miss • Students who are eligible under IDEA. their bus, parents are responsible for providing their student with transportation to school. Questions and/or HCS will determine eligibility for school bus concerns should be directed to the Transportation transportation. Coordinator at 256-428-8352. GENERAL ELIGIBILITY GUIDELINES FOR Questions regarding eligibility for school bus transportation should be directed to Durham School SCHOOL BUS TRANSPORTATION Services at 256-489-1025 or to the HCS Transportation General eligibility guidelines for school bus Department at 256-428-8352. transportation are as follows:

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STUDENT TRANSPORTATION

• Access on the HCS website by clicking the PARENT INFO tab on the HCS home page, and then clicking TRANSPORTATION. Both the Transportation Exception Request Form and the Transportation Exception Procedures (the instructions for filling out the form) are available on the Transportation page.

• Go to your student’s enrolled school and ask for the Transportation Exception Request Form.

You may submit the form in one of the following ways: • Bring to the Transportation department at 714 Bob Wallace Avenue; Huntsville, AL 35801

• Fax to 256-428-8351 SCHOOL BUS TRANSPORTATION EXCEPTION • Email as an attachment to [email protected] REQUEST FORM • Mail to the Transportation Department - Huntsville Parents and guardians can apply for a transportation City Schools; ATTN: Transportation Dept.; 714 Bob exception in the following situations: Wallace Ave.; Huntsville, AL 35801 • Students who otherwise would not qualify for HCS bus transportation. The Transportation Department should contact you within five days of receipt of the exception request by • Students who qualify for HCS bus transportation and telephone. If you have not heard from Transportation want to ride a bus other than their assigned home- within five days, you may contact at 256-428-8352 or 256- to-school bus route. 428-8310. Exceptions will be granted on a case-by- case basis and may be disapproved at the school or district To apply for a transportation exception, parents and level. Exception forms will be processed on a “first-come, guardians should complete a School Bus Transportation first-serve” basis. Exception Request Form, which will be processed as quickly as possible by HCS. If space on the requested bus route is not available, students will be placed on a wait list. If space is available on the requested existing bus route at the time of submission, a transportation exception may be Transportation exceptions may be rescinded for changes granted. If granted, your student will be designated as a in space availability. Guest Rider and will be allowed to board the bus the next day. Transportation exceptions may be rescinded if the student violates any bus rule. If a Guest Rider receives a This form must be resubmitted at the beginning of each disciplinary referral, their bus privileges may be school year and may be obtained in one of the following suspended for the rest of the school year. ways:

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STUDENT HEALTH

CERTIFICATE OF IMMUNIZATION DELIVERY OF MEDICATION Parents of HCS students need to provide an up-to-date All prescription medication must be in a current, Certificate of Immunization (“Blue Card”) detailing proof pharmacy-labeled prescription container. All OTC of immunization or a Certificate of Exemption issued by medications must be in an unopened (sealed), the Alabama Department of Health upon enrollment and manufacturer-labeled container and identified with the throughout the student’s scholastic career, as student’s name written in permanent ink. The parent/ appropriate. Immunization certificates are available from guardian or parent-designated responsible adult (not the the Madison County Health Department at 301 Max student) should deliver to the school. Luther Drive in Huntsville (256-539-3711) and from local physicians or military clinics. See the following chart of ACCEPTANCE OF MEDICATION Required Vaccines for School/Daycare Attendance: Both the parent/guardian or authorized adult and the

medication assistant or licensed nurse will sign the back of REQUIRED VACCINE NUMBER OF DOSES the Medication Administration Daily Record (MAR) to th Diphtheria/Tetanus/ 5 doses (4 if the 4 dose was verify the amount received or retrieved. Students must th Pertussis received after the 4 birthday) not deliver or carry any type of medication to and from TDaP (Tetanus/ 11 year olds prior to enrolling in 6th school except those authorized for self-administration/ Diphtheria/Pertussis) grade or after 11th birthday self-carry.

4 doses (3 if the 3rd dose was Polio received after the 4th birthday) STORAGE OF MEDICATION Measles/Mumps/ 2 doses of Measles, 1 dose of All medications must be stored in the school office or the Rubella Mumps, and 1 dose of Rubella nurse’s office according to ABN guidelines. Exceptions to Hib 4 doses up to age 5 (daycare only) this rule are medications prescribed to prevent or treat 1 dose (2 doses separated by at medical emergencies. least 28 days for persons 13 years Varicella of age or older beginning the vaccination series) or proof of EMERGENCY MEDICATION immunity A student may carry his/her emergency medication on 4 doses up to age 14 months Pneumococcal Vaccine his/her person for self-administration with proper (preschool ages 3 and 4) authorization on the School Medication Prescriber/

Parent Authorization Form (PPA) and after demonstration MEDICATION FORMS of proper administration to the nurse. Prescribed and/or over-the-counter (OTC) medication is administered only upon receipt of a correct, current, EXPIRED MEDICATION completed School Medication Prescriber/Parent The parent/guardian or authorized adult will be notified Authorization Form (PPA). This form is available in your when medications expire. Expired medication must be student’s school office or on the HCS website at picked up within two weeks of notification. If not picked www.huntsvillecityschools.org under Health Services - up within this time frame, medication will be destroyed in Medical Forms. Please ensure the PPA matches the accordance with federal and state guidelines. pharmacy label.

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STUDENT HEALTH

FIELD TRIPS parent/guardian is unable to attend, Health Services will determine appropriate staff based on the student’s needs, At the beginning of each school year, an Out-of-County/ Health Services staff availability, and legal necessity. Overnight Student Trip Medical Release form should be completed through InfoSnap. If not completed through InfoSnap, a paper form can be completed, signed, and END OF EACH SCHOOL YEAR notarized for each student. Parents are responsible for The parent/guardian or authorized adult must pick up all updating the form when necessary. medications on or before the last day of classes or the medications will be destroyed. Medications cannot be If medications must be given to the student during the kept at the school between the end of the regular school field trip, a School Medication Prescriber/Parent year and the start of summer school. Authorization form (PPA) is available on the HCS website at www.huntsvillecityschool.org. It must be completed SUMMER PROGRAMS for each medication. The completed PPA and medication The parent/guardian or authorized adult must bring in must be delivered to the school nurse or medication medication with completed medication forms on the first assistant no later than one week prior to the trip/event or day of any of the summer programs and pick up the on designated medication drop-off date(s). Medication or medication on or before the last day. Medications cannot paperwork cannot be accepted on the day of the trip. be kept at the school when the student is not attending.

Students who require special health procedures daily and/or emergency management of their specific health condition may not be excluded from participation in the field trip. The student’s parent/guardian may accompany the student to provide medication or care needed. If a

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STUDENT HEALTH

Wounds that may spread infection must be covered at all times while at school.

STUDENT EXCLUSION DUE TO ILLNESS Should a student develop any contagious signs or symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, fever (100 or higher), severe headache, severe stomachache and cramps, severe sore throat, severe upper respiratory symptoms, or cold and flu-like symptoms while at school, school personnel will contact the parent/guardian or authorized adult and require that the student be taken home. If symptoms persist longer than two days, consider taking your student to a physician.

PREVENTATIVE HEALTH MAINTENANCE In the absence of a medical diagnosis or a physician- If your student is sick, please keep them home. We are signed clearance to return to school, students who are ill committed to sending sick students home to decrease should be excluded for 24 hours after the last episode or exposure to the rest of our students and keeping students until illness subsides according to guidelines in the chart not exhibiting contagious signs or symptoms in school to below: learn. SYMPTOM HCS EXCLUSION PERIOD Checking for head lice is not a routine nursing procedure. Until 24 hours after the last episode of Diarrhea Students with live lice will be sent home and should be diarrhea treated before returning to school the next day. It is Fever (100° Until 24 hours after the last episode of recommended that each family periodically check their degrees or higher) fever without anti-fever medication child’s head for nits and live lice. For more information, Until 24 hours after the last episode of please visit the website at www.huntsvillecityschools.org Respiratory productive cough or wheezing in a non- under the Health Services department. asthmatic Until 24 hours after symptoms resolve in Influenza “flu” vaccine is now recommended for all age Severe Headache a student without a diagnosis of groups. For more information, please refer to migraines or seasonal allergies www.adph.org/immunization . Until 5 days after the onset of the rash Skin rash with fever and 24 hours after the last episode of Meningococcal vaccine (MCV4) is recommended for all fever without anti-fever medication children 11-12 years. For more information regarding Skin rash without Until 24 hours after the rash has faded meningitis, please refer to http://www.cdc.gov/ fever meningitis/index.html . Until 24 hours after the last episode of Vomiting vomiting Effective hand washing is the most powerful weapon Any wound(s) which may spread available to fight the transmission of most infections. infection must be covered at all times Wound(s) Adequate nutrition, rest, and exercise are important in while at school and may require a letter the fight against illness. from a physician to return to school

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STUDENT ASSESSMENT PROGRAM (STATE AND HCS)

STATE MANDATED ASSESSMENT PROGRAM There is currently no “Opting Out” option available according to Alabama law and Alabama Code Section 920 The State Mandated Assessment Program for the 2017-18 -4-2-.01. Should a student be absent on the day of testing, school year will include: the absence will be correctly coded based on the GRADE(S) ASSESSMENT definitions for excused and unexcused absences in 3-8 Scantron – ALSDE Mandated Accountability accordance with Alabama Code Sections 16-28-3, 16-28- 13, 16-28-16, and 16-28-22. 3-12 AlabamaAssessment Alternate Assessment

K-12 ACCESS for Limited English Proficient (LEP) COMPUTER-BASED ASSESSMENTS 11 ACT Plus Writing - ALSDE HS Accountability Assessment 12 ACT WorkKeys All electronic devices, except computers being used by students taking computer-based tests, must be turned off No student takes all the tests listed above nor is all day before testing begins and remain off until timed testing devoted to testing on the specified number of days. ends for all students.

The Alabama State Department of Education prescribed Possession of a digital device (including but not limited to that a formative assessment be administered in all schools cell phones, MP3 players, cameras, or other and school districts beginning in the 2012-13 school year. telecommunication devices capable of capturing or The formative assessment is relevant in assessing students relaying information) is strictly prohibited during the and preparing them for Alabama's College- and Career- administration of a secure test. School personnel will Ready Standards in Kindergarten through grade 12. HCS collect such devices when students enter the testing implements rigorous formative assessments which room. If a student is observed in possession of or using a provide a clear roadmap for educators to make digital device during the administration of a secure test, instructional decisions that allow for significant impacts on testing for the student will cease, the device will be student growth and achievement by providing critical confiscated and is subject to search, the student will be information throughout the learning process. In keeping dismissed from testing, and the student’s test will be with Department of Education policy, the superintendent invalidated. and the Board provide a regime of formative assessment to ensure students are on track to meet grade level and HCS MANDATED ASSESSMENT PROGRAM college and career readiness goals. Of note, by way of The HCS Mandated Assessment Program for the 2017- reference to Alabama Code Section 16: 2018 school year will include: The superintendent is the chief executive officer of the city board of education charged with the power to see that the board’s rules and regulations are GRADE(S) ASSESSMENT STAR Early Literacy (3 benchmarks during the carried into effect. The superintendent also has the PK-K school year) power to explain the true meaning of the school laws

and rules and regulations and to decide all Grade K-10 STAR Enterprise Math and Reading (3 Benchmarks during the school controversies regarding the proper administration of K-10 year) the public schools. The superintendent and HCS Board of Education have all powers they consider 10-11 PSAT/MNSQT (October 11, 2017 - necessary or proper to administer and manage the sophomore/junior students) schools. Each individual power or authority need not

be specifically prescribed.

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STUDENT GRADING

ACCESS TO CURRENT STUDENT GRADES DISTRIBUTION OF GRADES Grades will be updated by teachers weekly on Grades for students in grades 7 through 12 will be InformationNow (iNow). Parents/guardians can access assigned according to the following percentages for each grades via the Parent Portal located on the HCS website at nine week period: www.huntsvillecityschools.org. If a parent/guardian is PERCENTAGE GRADE DISTRIBUTION unable to access his/her student’s grades online, he/she may contact the student’s school office for assistance. Summative Assessment (performance -

based assessments, tests, labs, projects, 60% HIGH SCHOOL EXAMS writing assessment – all of which directly Due to accountability standards imposed at national and reflect course standards) state levels, all HCS high school students will take all of In-class assignments which directly reflect 40% their first and second semester exams. There are no course standards; designed to give students examination exemptions, unless approved by the practice learning and applying course standards principal and the Superintendent or designee. Students who enroll in Advanced Placement (AP) classes are HIGH SCHOOL AVERAGE CALCULATIONS required to sit for the AP tests at the end of the academic YEARLY AVG SEMESTER AVG CALCULATIONS year in order to be graded on the five point scale.

Semester 1 Semester 2 REPORT CARD SCHEDULE 45% (1st nine 45% (3rd nine 50% semester 1 weeks grade) + weeks grade) + average + Please refer to the chart below for the 2017-2018 HCS 45% (2nd nine 45% (4th nine 50% semester 2 Report Card Schedule: weeks grade) + weeks grade) + average 10% (semester 10% (semester exam grade) exam grade)

1st NINE WEEKS (42 days) 2nd NINE WEEKS (44 days)

Begin: Aug. 2, 2017 Begin: Oct. 9, 2017 Midway point: Aug. 30, 2017 Midway point: Nov. 7, 2017 Progress reports go home: Sept. 5, 2017 Progress reports go home: Nov. 13, 2017 End of grading period: Sept. 29, 2017 End of grading period: Dec. 15, 2017 Report cards go home: Oct. 16, 2017 Report cards go home: Jan. 8, 2018 3rd NINE WEEKS (40 days) 4th NINE WEEKS (54 days) Begin: Jan. 3, 2018 Begin: Mar. 5, 2018 Midway point: Feb. 1, 2018 Midway point: Apr. 18, 2018 Progress reports go home: Feb. 5, 2018 Progress reports go home: Apr. 23, 2018 End of grading period: Mar. 2, 2018 End of grading period: May 24, 2018 Report cards go home: Mar. 12, 2018 Report cards go home: May 24, 2018

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PROMOTION AND GRADUATION

PROMOTION (GRADES K-5) RETENTION PROCEDURES (GRADES K-5) Grade promotion will be based on student achievement. HCS believes that students should demonstrate mastery In elementary school, students must pass math and of standards and progress through each grade level within reading as well as either science or social studies. one school year. To accomplish this, instruction focuses In highly extenuating circumstances in first through fifth on academic standards, accommodates the varying need grades, the principal, after conference with the teacher and and interests of individual students, and includes with the approval of the Superintendent, may recommend strategies for addressing academic deficiencies. It is promotion of a student who does not meet the critical for school staff to work with parents, who need to requirements for promotion. The student’s record will be be engaged in their child’s education. This relationship marked “administrative promotion”. allows students, parents, and staff to share the

responsibility for educating students and encourages

ongoing two-way communication between parents and

the school.

If, however, a student is not showing adequate progress

during the initial part of the school year, the Problem Solving Team (PST) will convene to discuss possible interventions and develop a student intervention plan. In the event that the student becomes a candidate for retention, the PST, including the parents, teacher, and the administrator, will discuss the interventions and the possibility of retention.

All retained students must be screened through the PST process.

RETENTION CRITERIA (GRADES K-5) Students in grades K-5 will be considered for retention using the following criteria: • Scores of 1 or 2 in the areas of math and reading on the standards-based report card • Inability to independently complete school work at the level necessary to succeed in a higher grade • Below proficiency levels on HCS and state assessments

• Absent an excessive number of school days • Teacher and principal recommendations within the PST process

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PROMOTION AND GRADUATION

PARENT NOTIFICATION TIMELINE In highly extenuating circumstances in sixth through eighth grades, the principal, after conferencing with the teacher and • The PST will provide monthly updates to principal on with the approval of the Superintendent, may recommend progress of students with concerns promotion of a student who does not meet the requirements • Mid-quarter progress reports/report cards will be for promotion. The student’s record will be marked sent to parents “administrative promotion”.

• Teachers will call parents of students who score HCS believes that students should demonstrate mastery of mostly 1s and 2s on the standards based report at standards and progress through each grade level within one mid-quarter school year. To accomplish this, instruction focuses on • August: Notification of Promotion/Retention academic standards, accommodates the varying need and Guidelines in Parent/Guardian Information Guide interests of individual students, and includes strategies for • October/November: Teachers will schedule addressing academic deficiencies. It is critical for school staff parent/teacher conference. Concerns with student to work with parents, who need to be engaged in their child’s progress will be addressed, as well as updates on PST education. This relationship allows students, parents, and recommended interventions staff to share the responsibility for educating students and encourages ongoing two-way communication between • At the end of the second quarter, the teacher will parents and the school. notify the principal of all students considered for

retention. All students who score mostly 1s and 2s on If, however, a student is not showing adequate progress the standards based report card must be considered. during the initial part of the school year, the Problem During the third quarter, a parent- teacher Solving Team (PST) will convene to discuss possible conference will be scheduled. interventions and develop a student intervention plan. In • End of the Third Quarter: The Light’s Retention Scale the event that the student becomes a candidate for will be completed as a part of the student retention, the PST, including the parents, teacher, and the assessment plan. administrator, will discuss the interventions and the • Mid-May: A retention meeting with the parent, possibility of retention. teacher, and the principal will be held. Upon review of all data, the principal and teacher will confirm All retained students must be screened through the PST retention. The principal will send a letter to the process. parent confirming retention and a copy will be placed in the student’s cumulative file with documentation NORMAL PROGRESS FOR HIGH SCHOOL forms. An intervention plan for the following school STUDENTS year will also be provided at this time. It is expected that high school students will pass all of their

courses each year. In addition, it is expected that all students RETENTION PROCEDURES (GRADES 6-8) will graduate with their four year cohort. In view of this expectation, a student who has not earned the minimum 6-8 PROMOTION credit necessary for graduation in a five-year period, or who In middle school, a student who fails two or more subjects is over 21 years of age, must find an alternative situation for or a student who fails a subject for two consecutive years classes and will not be permitted to remain in a regular high must attend and successfully complete summer school in school. order to be promoted.

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PROMOTION AND GRADUATION

CREDIT ADVANCEMENT Consideration may be given for extenuating circumstances such as prolonged illness or family crisis Huntsville City Schools offers students (grades 9 – 12) with the Superintendent’s approval. who exhibit proficiency beyond the level required for all students for an individual course the opportunity to

pursue Credit Advancement as an alternative to the GRADUATION CEREMONIES PARTICIPATION traditional Carnegie Unit approach to course Only those students who have completed all completion. For a student to be eligible for Credit requirements for a diploma or those students who have Advancement he or she must: completed the prescribed Individual Education Plan 1. Be recommended by a current or former (IEP) will be allowed to participate in the graduation teacher of the subject/course being considered ceremony. Student participation in graduation for Credit Advancement. 2. Have criterion-referenced or norm-referenced ceremonies and related graduation activities will be test scores that support an above grade-level subject to the principal’s approval and payment of proficiency of content in the subject/course outstanding financial obligations. Participation in a being considered for Credit Advancement. graduation-related ceremony may be prohibited by the 3. Complete a Request for Credit Advancement principal if the student violates disciplinary standards or form, signed by the parent or guardian, the high if, in the judgment of the principal, the student’s school counselor, and high school principal. participation could lead or contribute to disorder or disruption of the ceremony or activity. HOMEBOUND CREDIT RECOVERY Homebound instruction is designed to provide continuity of educational services between the classroom and home or Students who do not receive credit in a course due to health care facility for students whose medical needs, both non-mastery of content or skills may apply for credit physical and psychiatric, do not allow school attendance for recovery at their home school. To be eligible for credit a limited period. Homebound instruction may be used to recovery, students must have achieved a baseline score supplement the classroom program for students with of 40 or above (on a 100 point scale). The final grade in health impairments whose conditions may interfere with credit recovery may not exceed 70 (on a 100 point regular school attendance (e.g., students receiving dialysis scale). Ineligible students must repeat the entire course. or radiation/ chemotherapy or students with other serious Credit recovery may be delivered by a highly qualified health conditions). teacher or through instructional technology. Credit recovery is not an option for students who have earned Homebound instruction is not intended to supplant school a credit in the course. services and is, by design, temporary. While no specific

number of days can be set due to the many complex SUMMER SCHOOL situations that arise for students, instruction should take Details regarding the HCS summer school program for place in the school setting to the fullest extent possible. The each year can be located on the HCS website student’s inability to attend school for medical reasons, at www.huntsvillecityschools.org under the Curriculum both physical and psychiatric, must be certified by a licensed and Instruction department. physician or licensed clinical psychologist. Homebound services are not a guarantee that the student will progress in the academic program.

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PROMOTION AND GRADUATION

GRADE CLASSIFICATION CREDIT RESPONSE TO INSTRUCTION (RtI) AND REQUIREMENTS PROBLEM SOLVING TEAMS (PST) A student progresses towards graduation by earning Response to Instruction (RtI) integrates core classroom credits in the required and elective subjects. For student, instruction, assessment, and interventions within a multi- parent, and administration convenience, grade level tiered system to maximize student achievement and designations of 9th, 10th, 11th, and 12th are used to reduce behavior problems. RtI allows schools to identify indicate homeroom placement and progress towards and monitor students who are at risk of failing courses. completion of graduation requirements. Schools use problem-solving and data-based decision making to provide research-based interventions to HCS follows the Alabama High School Graduation students who need additional assistance in core classes. Requirements as set forth by the Alabama State Problem Solving Teams (PST) monitor student progress Department of Education. For detailed course frequently and adjust the intensity of intervention based requirement information, please go to www.alsde.edu on student results. These teams make high quality and refer to the document “Alabama High School decisions to support all students, especially those at risk Graduation Requirements”. of failing to achieve state performance standards. The following is a summary of graduation requirements In addition, HCS uses the school-based PST process to for Alabama high school students: identify students in grades six through twelve who are at risk of failure to graduate with their cohort. The PST Graduation Requirements: 24 credits process uses holistic factors, such as grades in core • A beginning 10th grader must have a classes, school absences, and discipline. No HCS minimum of 5 credits students are suspended out of school for tardiness or • A beginning 11th grader must have a truancies. Instead, HCS provides supportive intervention minimum of 12 credits measures designed to address the underlying causes of • A 12th grader must have a minimum of 24 absenteeism. credits to graduate

Please refer to the 2017-2018 HCS Course Description Guide page 6.

Parents and students may also contact their student’s school counselor for additional information regarding high school course of study and requirements.

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MATH ACCELERATION

Huntsville City Schools is committed to ensuring the preparation for upper level high school math courses. coordination of a cohesive accelerated math curriculum Additionally, a student who completes Algebra I in throughout all grade levels. Our goal in HCS is for Algebra seventh grade will have the option to take Honors I to be the standard math course in eighth grade. Geometry in eighth grade. Completion of Algebra I in eighth grade sets a student on course to complete Calculus by the end of twelfth grade. The chart below outlines the options available for course As seen in the chart below, the fifth grade math course progression. This progression flows directly into the high selection is the first step in the student’s path to reach this school course progression chart for mathematics. Please goal. Students in fifth grade complete fifth grade math or refer to the HCS High School Course Description Guide for fifth grade Digits. Digits is an accelerated fifth grade math details regarding the high school math course course combining fifth grade standards and sixth grade progression. standards necessary to succeed in honors math in the middle grades. During the 2017- 2018 academic school It is important for students and their parents to work year, HCS’ goal is for all fifth grade students to be enrolled closely with their math teachers and school counselors to in Digits. After fifth grade, students have different course understand and determine the best math course options when deciding on a path of math progression in progression to meet each student’s individual needs and the middle grades, including honors math curriculum. The maximize his or her full potential. honors math curriculum in the middle grades combines grade level standards and standards from the next grade level to ensure success in an honors class and in

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FAMILY AND COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT

HCS provides numerous opportunities for families and the Pre-Kindergarten (Pre-K) Program: HCS advertises community to learn about programs offered by HCS. The its Pre-K program, available to all four-year-old list below contains a few examples of HCS family and children in Huntsville. However, due to limited space, community engagement: preference is given to children whose families • Majority-to-Minority Transfers: In the fall (usually demonstrate financial need. November), HCS advertises the details of its • Parent/Guardian Workshops: HCS offers parent/ Majority-to-Minority (M-to-M) transfer program. guardian workshops to provide parents with support This outreach includes communications shared with and opportunities to learn about ways to achieve community groups and PTAs, as well as question- their student’s academic and career goals. These and-answer sessions at each HCS high school. workshops are open to all parents/guardians of HCS • Magnet Schools and Programs: Each year, HCS holds students and are held at each Title I school. fairs, advertises on billboards, and plans special trips • First-Time Advanced Placement (AP) Students: High for students to teach parents, students, and the schools offer parent/teacher conferences for community about the unique aspects of the many parents/guardians of first-time AP students. During different magnet schools and programs offered by the first-time AP conference, parents will review the HCS. The arts, engineering, and science communities syllabus and available support services and identify are invited to work with HCS magnet schools and “steps to success” for the student. programs to provide support for these unique initiatives.

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TITLE I

WHAT IS TITLE I? Schools receiving Title I funds (this includes parents, teachers, administrators and other school staff) work to: Title I of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act • Identify students most in need of educational help (ESEA) is the largest federal contribution to K-12 education. It consists of several funding streams for school • Set goals for improvement districts and schools to supplement local educational • Measure student progress programs and to ensure that financially disadvantaged • Develop programs that add to regular classroom students are given the same opportunity to achieve state- instruction defined academic standards as their peers. In exchange for financial support, schools, districts, and states are held • Involve parents in all aspects of the program accountable for raising the academic performance of all students, narrowing the achievement gap between TITLE I CERTIFICATION AND LICENSURE underachieving groups and their more advantaged peers, REQUIREMENT / PARENTS’ RIGHT TO KNOW and enabling those most at risk to reach state academic standards. Under the Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA), Section 1112(c)(6), each LEA supported with Title I funds will ensure The goal of Title I is high-quality education for every that all teachers and paraprofessionals working in a child, so the program provides extra help to students who program supported under this part meet applicable state need it most. These are children who are the furthest from certification and licensure requirements, including any meeting the standards the state has set for all children. requirements for certification obtained through alternative Title I resources are directed to schools with high routes to certification. percentages of disadvantaged students. Please also note that, under the ESSA, Section 1112(e)(1) (A), at the beginning of each school year, each LEA HOW TITLE I WORKS supported with Title I funds shall notify parents that they The federal government provides funding to states each may request, and the LEA will provide on request and in a year for Title I. To get the funds, each state must submit timely manner, information regarding the professional a plan describing: qualifications of the student’s classroom teacher including:

• What all children are expected to know 1. Whether the student’s teacher: • The high-quality standards of performance that all children are expected to meet • Has met state qualification and licensing criteria for the grade levels and subject areas in which the • Ways to measure progress teacher provides instruction.

State educational agencies (SEAs), such as the Alabama • Is teaching under emergency or other provisional State Department of Education, send the money to status through which state qualification or licensing school districts based on the number of low-income criteria have been waived. families. • Is teaching in the field of discipline of the certification of the teacher. The local education agency (LEA), such as HCS, identifies eligible schools - those with the highest percentage of children from low-income families - and provides Title I resources.

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TITLE I

2. Whether the child is provided services by 3. The ESSA, Section 1112(e)(1)(B), offers additional paraprofessionals and, if so, their qualifications, information. In addition to the information that including state requirements: parents may request under subparagraph (A), a • Received a diploma or its school that receives funds under this part shall recognized equivalent. provide to each individual parent of a child who is a student in such school, with respect to such student: • Completed two years of study at an institution of higher education. • Information on the level of achievement and academic growth of the student, if applicable and • Obtained an associate’s (or higher) degree. available, on each of the state academic • Completed the Workkeys Assessment. assessments required under this part. • Timely notice that the student has been assigned or has been taught for four or more consecutive weeks by a teacher who does not meet applicable state certification or licensure requirement at the grade level and subject area in which the teacher has been assigned.

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SUPPORT FOR FAMILIES

SUPPORT FOR FAMILIES OF STUDENTS WITH This program, beginning in kindergarten and continuing DISABILITIES through high school, will provide each English language learner (ELL or EL) the opportunity to be successful in all HCS provides a full range of services and educational classes academic areas and to develop listening, speaking, support for identified exceptional students ages 3 to 21. reading, and writing proficiency.

• Autism • Multiple Disabilities In short, the educational goals of the ESOL program are:

• Deaf-Blindness • Other Health Impaired • Equal access to understandable instruction in all • Developmentally Delayed • Orthopedically Impaired academic areas • Emotional Disturbance • Specific Learning Disabilities • Meaningful participation in all district programs • Gifted/Talented • Speech-Language Impaired • Increased English proficiency • Hearing Impaired • Traumatic Brain Injury • Mastery of subject matter content • Intellectual Disabilities • Visually Impaired

For more information, please contact the HCS English All referrals, evaluations, and educational support are Speakers of Other Languages Program at 256-428-6990. provided in accordance with the Individuals with Parents may reach our Spanish bilingual interpreters at Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), Alabama Act 106, 256-428-7996. Exceptional Children’s Act, and The Rehabilitation Act of 1973. GIFTED SERVICES (GATE) The term "gifted and talented students" means students Information regarding classes or referral procedures may whose mental development is accelerated beyond the be obtained from the school principal or from the Special average or who have demonstrated a specific aptitude or Education Services department at 256-428-6872. talent to the extent they need and can benefit from specially planned educational services. "Gifted and talented SUPPORT FOR FAMILIES OF ENGLISH students” include students with exceptional ability in LANGUAGE LEARNERS (ELL) academic subjects, high level thought processes, and creativity. Gifted students are not a homogeneous group The goal of the HCS English for Speakers of and cannot be identified by one set of assessment tools, nor Other Languages (ESOL) program is to provide equitable can they be served by one approach to providing services. opportunities to students who have a primary or home The Huntsville City Schools Gifted and Talented Education language other than English and who are Limited English programming, GATE, provides quality identification Proficient (LEP) or Non-English Speakers (NES). The procedures and services that are consistent across every primary focus is to provide an English-rich environment school setting in the district. Beginning in Pre-Kindergarten that encourages English proficiency as quickly as possible. classes, GATE provides Talent Development for all HCS elementary students through fifth grade, giving all students HCS strives to create a learning environment that the opportunity to develop and demonstrate gifted encourages students’ pride in their cultural heritage and characteristics. The purpose of the Talent Development provides the cognitive and affective support to help them program is to develop and to promote the identification of become contributing members of society. gifted students who may have faced previous barriers to identification. The gifted and talented students who are served by GATE can be further articulated as falling into two general categories: those of high general intellectual ability 25 | P a g e

SUPPORT FOR FAMILIES and creativity, and those students who are considered found on the School Readiness page of the HCS website gifted in specific academic ability areas such as the areas at www.huntsvillecityschools.org or by calling the School of language arts and mathematics. These areas are also Readiness department at 256-428-6886. characterized by creative ability which is incorporated into the identification process. As a part of the 2nd grade child find process, HCS GATE develops a body of evidence to identify each gifted student, creating a case study that considers the whole child. Students who are exceptional in general intellectual ability and/or high achievement across academic and creative domains are identified by assessments, work products, and narratives that assess speed in attaining curriculum goals, a wide range of knowledge in either general or specific areas, a passion for absorbing new understandings of the world and how it works, and creative thinking. Multiple categories of giftedness may be present in the same student or a student may fall into only one of the categories. HCS GATE service delivery options for these students include curriculum compacting, acceleration of learning, and specialized instruction to expose them to new learning in various disciplines and to develop creative productivity. SUPPORT FOR FAMILIES OF STUDENTS WHO All students who are identified as gifted receive an ARE HOMELESS individualized Advanced Education Plan (AEP) to specify In accordance with the McKinney-Vento Act, HCS students their learning needs and address them both in the gifted experiencing homelessness are permitted to enroll in and regular classrooms. The AEP also addresses social and either: emotional needs and make recommendations for home support. Parents, guardians, teachers, anyone who knows • Their “school of origin,” meaning the school a child the student, and students may make a referral for gifted attended when permanently housed or in which he/ screening. A student is determined eligible when a she was last enrolled) pattern of strengths and gifted traits are evident following • The school zoned for their temporary residence a case study. To make a referral, contact the gifted education teacher at your child’s school or the Director of At the request of the student’s parent/guardian, HCS will Special Education at 256-428-6872. provide or arrange for the transportation of students who are homeless to and from their school of origin.

PROGRAMS FOR EARLY LEARNERS For more information regarding additional information or HCS provides high quality Pre-Kindergarten (Pre-K) services for homeless students, please contact Federal programs that are developmentally appropriate for Programs at 256-428-6884 or 256-428-6880. children who will be four years old on or before September 1 of the current school year. Information regarding the application process may be

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STUDENT DRESS CODE

Huntsville City Schools is committed to preparing our students for college and careers beyond high school. In order to be successful in either arena, students must dress in a neat, clean, and appropriate manner in clothing that encourages an atmosphere conducive to learning, work, and discipline. Parents/guardians are expected to be our partners by monitoring students’ dress. Please refer to the Behavioral Learning Guide (“BLG”) and applicable Matrices (the Elementary Matrix for grades K-6 and the Secondary Matrix for grades 7-12) as appropriate for the HCS student dress code.

STUDENT PRIVACY AND SUPPORT

STUDENT PRIVACY - FERPA parent/guardian of a student victim, a close adult Parents have certain rights with respect to student relative of a student victim, or a school staff educational records pursuant to the Family Educational member, and wish to report an incident of alleged Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA). These rights transfer to bullying, harassment or intimidation, please the student when the student becomes an “Eligible complete this form. Once complete, the results of Student” upon reaching the age of 18 or attending a this form will automatically be sent to the principal school beyond the high school level. The rights of at the student victim’s school. To access this form, parents and/or eligible students are outlined in the HCS please visit the HCS website at Policy Manual Section 6.28. For questions regarding www.huntsvillecityschools.org then select your school. student data and records, please contact Assessment and The link to the form will be on the bottom left of the Accountability at 256-428-6966. main school page. If you have any other questions, please contact School Counseling Services at 256-428- STUDENT SUPPORT - BULLYING 6925. HCS provides bullying prevention and intervention programs via School Counseling Services. We encourage students and parents to report bullying to school administration immediately if bullying occurs. Bullying, harassment, or intimidation is serious and will not be tolerated. HCS has a form to report alleged bullying, harassment, or intimidation that occurred on school property, at a school-sponsored activity or event off of school property, on a school bus, or on the way to and/or from school in the current school year. If you are a student victim, the

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STUDENT RIGHTS

EXPRESSION - STUDENT PUBLICATIONS School officials have the authority to ensure that student expression is responsible and is not disruptive. The Students should be provided the opportunity for free principal and student and student publication sponsor are expression of ideas. The primary responsibilities in a responsible for the content of all student publications. student’s life have to do with the process of inquiry and The principal has the final authority on all published learning, of acquiring and imparting knowledge, and of content. exchanging ideas. The right of students to freely express themselves in the absence of a finding of substantial disruption has been firmly established by the courts. PETITION Students have the right to present petitions; however, the Students have the right to express their opinions verbally collecting of signatures on petitions shall neither disrupt and symbolically as long as such expression does not classroom procedures nor interfere with the educational infringe upon the rights of others or create a situation that process. Petitions must be free from obscenities, libelous may lead to a disruption of the learning environment. The statements, and personal attacks. use and display of oppressive signs, flags, and symbols by individual students are prohibited. RELIGION

Students have the right to their religious beliefs. No school Students are entitled to express in writing their personal may oppose, sanction, or support any particular religion. opinions. Students who edit, publish, or distribute Schools must remain neutral in religious matters. handwritten or printed material, including non-school sponsored newspapers, among their fellow students within the school must assume responsibility for the PATRIOTISM content of such publications. Libelous statements and HCS encourages patriotism. Students shall have the right obscenities are prohibited in all publications. The to recite the pledge, sing the national anthem, salute a distribution of written material will be limited to flag, or take part in patriotic ceremonies. If students designated areas and times. object to such ceremonies, they shall remain quiet.

STUDENT DISCIPLINE The leaders of Huntsville City Schools believe that the guidance provided in the Behavioral Learning Guide (“BLG”) and applicable Matrices (the Elementary Matrix for grades K-6 and the Secondary Matrix for grades 7-12) supports our staff and our students in creating a positive school climate and culture in each of our schools. The BLG and applicable Matrices include proactive and responsive strategies for teachers, staff, and school leaders. They also provide guidelines for progressive, supportive Interventions and Disciplinary Consequences to address a broad range of student behavior. The BLG and applicable Matrices may be found on the Student’s laptop or on the HCS Website at www.huntsvillecityschools.org.

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SCHOOL ENVIRONMENT AND SAFETY It shall be a violation of school policy for any HCS staff member or any HCS student to harass another person through conduct or communications of a sexual nature.

Such harassment is prohibited and will not be tolerated in school, during school hours, before or after school, while on school property, at school sponsored events, or while traveling on vehicles funded by the Alabama State Department of Education and on other than school property when such behavior can be demonstrated to negatively affect the educational process or to endanger the health, safety, morality, or welfare of the school community.

If you feel that you have been the victim of such behavior,

please notify your teacher, counselor, or another staff SCHOOL HOURS member. If you feel uncomfortable making a report to a The school building will not be open before 7:30 a.m. school staff member, you may contact the Compliance Please do not send your student to school before this time Director by emailing your complaint to as no certified personnel are on duty. The following is the [email protected]. You may also make a school hours: written report. A complaint form will be made available in the principal’s office as well as on the HCS website at • Elementary (P-5): 8:00 a.m. - 2:30 p.m. www.huntsvillecityschools.org . • Elementary (P-6): 8:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m. • P-8/Jr. High/Middle School: 8:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m. Your complaint will be investigated and the school will • High School: 8:30 a.m. - 3:40 p.m. take appropriate action to eliminate the discrimination and/or harassment. Retaliation against anyone for filing a Students participating in the Afterschool Lab Program complaint or participating in an investigation of a must report directly to assigned rooms at 2:30 p.m. complaint is prohibited. Any individual who engages in

retaliatory behavior (e.g., threats, intimidation) will be SCHOOL VISITORS subject to immediate disciplinary action, according to HCS For the protection of students and school employees, all Board Policy 6.14. schools have a closed campus policy. Parents and all persons visiting a school for any purpose are required to go to the School Office immediately upon entering the building to report their presence and business.

STUDENT SEXUAL HARASSMENT In accordance with HCS Board Policy 6.14, HCS maintains a learning and working environment free of sexual harassment. Sexual harassment in any form that is directed toward students is prohibited.

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INTERNET SAFETY

Access to the internet has been made available to HCS ▪ Age or Birthday (with year) students, teachers, and staff. The goal is to promote ▪ Credit Card Numbers and Social Security educational excellence in HCS by facilitating research, Numbers (in combination or alone) resource sharing, innovation, and communication. The internet is to be used in support of research and education • Do not arrange a face-to-face meeting with someone consistent with the educational objectives of HCS. The you "meet" on the computer network or internet HCS Board of Education encourages and supports the without your teacher’s and parents’ permission (if welfare and safety of all users when using the internet in you are under 18). all subjects and all facets of curriculum (written, taught, or • Do not share photos of yourself, your family, or your tested). The term "safety" of the internet applies to the home with people you meet online without prior use of accepted internet etiquette and compliance with all permission from the supervising teacher or school legal and basic ethical constraints administrator.

• Do not give out internet passwords to anyone other GENERAL WARNING than parents or teachers. All users and their parents/guardians are advised that access to the electronic network may include the potential CONFIDENTIALITY OF STUDENT for access to materials inappropriate for school aged INFORMATION students. Each user must take responsibility for his or her use of the computer network and internet and stay away Personally identifiable information concerning students from these sites. If a student finds that other users are may not be disclosed or used in any way on the internet visiting offensive or harmful sites, he/she should report without the permission of a teacher or administrator. such use to the teacher. INTERNET FILTERING PERSONAL SAFETY Filtering software will be utilized to help prevent students from accessing visual depictions that are • Be safe at all times. In using the computer network (1) obscene, (2) child pornography, or (3) harmful to and internet, do not reveal personal information minors. A supervising teacher or school administrator, as such as your home address or telephone number, necessary for purposes of bona fide research or other private or confidential information about yourself or educational projects, may request that internet filtering be others on the internet. disabled. Filtering will help provide the following: • Students will not give anyone on the internet • Safety and security of minors when using electronic information about themselves or anyone else. This mail, chat rooms, and other forms of direct includes any of the following information: communication. ▪ First and Last Name • Unauthorized access, including "hacking" and other ▪ School Name unlawful activities regarding minors online. ▪ School Mascot, Sport Team Names, • Unauthorized disclosures, use, and dissemination of or Affiliations personal information regarding minors. ▪ Home Telephone Number ▪ Home Address (any part of) ▪ Parent Name(s)

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INTERNET SAFETY

FAILURE TO FOLLOW PROCEDURES The use of the computer network and internet is a privilege, not a right. Any user who violates these procedures shall, at a minimum, have his/her access to the computer network and internet terminated. HCS may refuse to reinstate access for the remainder of the student's enrollment in HCS. A user violating these procedures by his/her own action or by failing to report any violations by other users will be denied access to the network. Furthermore, a user violates these procedures if he/she permits another person to use his/her account or password to access the computer network and internet, including any user whose access has been denied or terminated. HCS may take other disciplinary action in such circumstances.

PRIVACY Network and internet access is provided as a tool for education. HCS reserves the right to monitor, inspect, copy, review, and store at any time and, without prior notice, any and all usage of the computer network and internet access and any and all information transmitted or received in connection with such usage. All such information files shall be and remain the property of HCS and no user shall have any expectation of privacy regarding such materials.

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STUDENT FEES, FINES, AND CHARGES

COURSE FEES NON-COURSE FEES Schools do not charge fees for core class or for magnet Fees for parking privileges will be established each school school courses. Schools may charge fees for items such as year and will be communicated during the school non-core classes, school activities, or magnet program registration process. All fees, fines, and charges will be activities. According to HCS Board Policy 6.4, HCS will guided by the district Chief Financial Officer and may be establish reasonable fees for courses not required for amended from time to time as conditions dictate. graduation and courses that are part of a or program curriculum. All funds collected in fees will be FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE spent on the course that the fee was levied. Reasonable HCS has a uniform process in place to help students who fees will be levied for pupils that attend district schools cannot afford to pay fees. Each school follows this and live outside of district boundaries. process. If you have any questions about a particular fee, you should ask your student’s teacher or principal about fee waiver and fee reduction opportunities.

PARENT CONCERNS

Parent concerns and problems that may arise from time • Parents/guardians are encouraged to consult with the to time should be resolved at the lowest possible level. In classroom teacher and/or school counselor to resolve order to resolve concerns in the most appropriate fashion school-related concerns about their student. in the shortest period of time possible, each concern • A meeting with the school administrator should be should start at the most immediate level of arranged if the matter is not resolved at the teacher/ administration/supervision. counselor level. Concerns should be submitted in writing and should be specific in terms of action desired. • If the matter is not resolved after utilizing the above steps, parents may submit a Parent Concern Form to the Student Welfare and Social Services department. The Parent Concern Form can be found on the HCS website under Student Welfare and Social Services at www.huntsvillecityschools.org .

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HCS SCHOOL DIRECTORY

SCHOOL ADDRESS ZIP PHONE FAX PRINCIPAL Academy for Academics & Arts 4800 Sparkman Dr. NW 35810 256-428-7680 256-428-7601 Amy VanAllen Academy for Science & Foreign Language 3221 Mastin Lake Rd 35810 256-428-7000 256-428-7002 Jeanne Greer Blossomwood Elementary 1321 Woodmont Ave SE 35801 256-428-7020 256-428-7021 Jamie Burton Chaffee Elementary 7900 Whittier Rd 35802 256-428-7040 256-428-7047 Christina Spivey Challenger Elementary 13555 Chaney Thompson 35803 256-428-7060 256-428-7064 Michele Wallace Challenger Middle 13555 Chaney Thompson 35803 256-428-7620 256-428-7621 Dianne Hasty Chapman P-8 2006 Reuben Drive 35811 256-428-7640 256-428-7641 Paula Thompson Columbia High 300 Explorer Blvd 35806 256-428-7576 256-428-7579 Clifford Porter Dawson Elementary 5308 Mastin Lake Rd 35810 256-428-7500 256-428-7501 Deana Henson Farley Elementary 2900 Green Cove Rd 35803 256-428-7160 256-428-7165 Towana Smith Goldsmith-Schiffman Elementary 1210 Taylor Rd 35763 256-428-7150 256-428-7158 Jennifer Douthit Grissom High 1001 Haysland Rd 35802 256-428-8000 256-428-8001 Becky Balentine Hampton Cove Elementary 261-A Old 431 Highway 35763 256-428-7180 256-428-7181 Autumn Bray Hampton Cove Middle 261-B Old 431 Highway 35763 256-428-8380 256-428-8383 Yvette Coley-Smith Highlands Elementary 2500 Barney Terrace NW 35810 256-428-7200 256-428-7201 Amber Hall Huntsville Center for Technology 2800 Drake Ave 35805 256-428-7810 256-428-7811 Shelton Cobb Huntsville High 2304 Billie Watkins Ave 35801 256-428-8050 256-428-8051 Aaron King Huntsville Junior High 817 Adams Ave 35801 256-428-7700 256-428-7701 Stephanie Wieseman Jemison High 5000 Pulaski Pike 35810 256-428-8100 256-428-8118 Lynette Alexander Jones Valley Elementary 4908 Garth Rd 35802 256-428-7220 256-428-7221 Tauyna Smith Lakewood Elementary 3501 Kenwood Dr. 35810 256-428-7240 256-428-7241 Fred Barnes Lee High 2500 Meridian St 35811 256-428-8150 256-428-8151 Anne Jobe Martin Luther King, Jr. Elementary 3112 Meridian St 35811 256-428-7100 256-428-7101 Karen Melillo McDonnell Elementary 4010 Binderton Place 35805 256-428-7280 256-428-7281 Laura Worshim McNair Junior High 5000 Pulaski Pike 35810 256-428-7660 256-428-7661 Chrystapher Walker Monte Sano Elementary 1107 Monte Sano Blvd 35801 256-428-7300 256-428-7301 Sharon Driggers Montview Elementary 2600 Garvin Rd 35810 256-428-7320 256-428-7321 Marcia Sutton Morris P - 8 4801 Bob Wallace Ave 35805 256-428-7340 256-428-7341 Patty Boyd Mountain Gap P-8 821 Mountain Gap Rd 35803 256-428-7720 256-428-7721 Heather Bardwell New Century Technology High 2500 Meridian St 35811 256-428-7800 256-428-7801 Sheila Roby Providence Elementary 10 Chalkstone St 35806 256-428-7125 256-428-7127 Paul Bonner Ridgecrest Elementary 3505 Cerro Vista 35805 256-428-7380 256-428-7381 Denine Matthews Rolling Hills Elementary 2901 Hilltop Terrace 35810 256-428-7400 256-428-7401 Linda Burruss Sonnie Hereford Elementary 2755 Wilson Dr NW 35816 256-428-7440 256-428-7441 Mark McCrory Weatherly Heights Elementary 1307 Canstatt Dr 35803 256-428-7460 256-428-7468 Debra West Whitesburg P-8 107 Sanders Rd 35802 256-428-7780 256-428-7581 Brad Scott Williams P-6 155 Barren Fork Blvd 35824 256-428-7540 256-428-7540 Melissa Veasy-Lindsey Williams Junior High 155 Barren Fork Blvd 35824 256-428-7330 256-428-7331 Melissa Veasy-Lindsey

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HCS PROGRAM / FACILITY DIRECTORY

PROGRAM / FACILITY ADDRESS ZIP PHONE

Classroom Science Initiative (CSI) at Huntsville Center for Technology 2800 Drake Ave 35805 256-428-7818

EARTHSCOPE (Environmental Education) at Goldsmith-Schiffman Elementary 1210 Taylor Rd 35763 256-428-7309

HEALS Administrative Office 1100 Meridian St 35801 256-428-7560

HEALS Dental Clinic: Charles Hall Dental Clinic at Martin Luther King, Jr. Elementary 3112 Meridian St 35811 256-428-7276

HEALS School Clinic: Michael L. O'Dell Clinic at Sonnie Hereford Elementary 2755 Wilson St 35816 256-428-7428

HEALS School Clinic: Burt Memorial Clinic at Morris Elementary 4801 Bob Wallace Ave 35805 256-428-7488

HEALS School Clinic: Michael K. Johnson Medical Clinic at Martin Luther King, Jr. Elementary 3112 Meridian St 35811 256-428-7110

Annie C. Merts Building 200 White St 35801 256-428-6800

Milton Frank Stadium 2801 15th Ave 35805 256-428-7910

S.P.A.N. Program 104 Spacegate Dr 35806 256-852-1224

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HCS DEPARTMENT DIRECTORY

For the most up-to-date information, visit the HCS website at www.huntsvillecityschools.org.

The Central Office is located at the Annie C. Merts Building at 200 White Street; Huntsville, Alabama 35801. To contact the Central Office, select the appropriate department from the list below or call the main number, 256-428-6800.

Assessment and Accountability ...... 256-428-6966 Athletics…………………………………………………...... 256-428-6867 Behavioral Learning ...... 256-428-6894 Board of Education Office ...... 256-428-6826 Child Nutrition Program (CNP) ...... 256-428-6955 Communications and ETV ...... 256-428-7860 Community Engagement ...... 256-428-6943 Compliance ...... 256-428-6807 Construction and Renovation ...... 256-428-8310 Deputy Superintendent’s Office ...... 256-428-6818 Elementary Education ...... 256-428-6975 Federal Programs ...... 256-428-6880 Facilities ...... 256-428-8342 Finance ...... 256-428-6851 Health Services ...... 256-428-6830 Help Desk (IT) ...... 256-428-6900 Human Resources ...... 256-428-6839 Magnet Programs Office ...... 256-428-6864 Maintenance ...... 256-428-8341 Networked Learning ...... 256-428-6823 Purchasing ...... 256-428-6931 Print Shop ...... 256-428-8359 Records ...... 256-428-8363 School Counseling Services ...... 256-428-6925 School Readiness ...... 256-428-6886 Secondary Education ...... 256-428-6970 Security Hotline ...... 256-428-7233 Special Education Services ...... 256-428-6872 Strategy and Innovation ...... 256-428-6929 Student Welfare and Social Services ...... 256-428-6890 Superintendent’s Office ...... 256-428-6810 Talent Management / Professional Development ...... 256-428-6973 Transportation ...... 256-428-8352 Warehouse ...... 256-428-8347

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“Where young futures take flight”

200 White Street Huntsville, Alabama 35801

www.huntsvillecityschools.org 256-428-6800